A voice hearers guide to the galaxy!

This presentation will feature the experiences of a voice hearer and the factors that contribute to living well and being a Whole Person while at the same time being a narrative of an activity-based life journey towards... [ view full abstract ]

This presentation will feature the experiences of a voice hearer and the factors that contribute to living well and being a Whole Person while at the same time being a narrative of an activity-based life journey towards self-recovery. In retrospect analysed with the occupational therapy model ‘ValMO’ including Occupational Science concepts such as Occupational Imbalance, Occupational Alienation, Occupational deprivation, Occupational apartheid, Occupational Marginalization and Occupational Justice.

The beginning of it all: In person narrative about sexual abuse in childhood, how it affected life activities, resulted in detachment from the world, and how there was a little part that never gave up, despite the repression making the conscious Self unaware of underlying trauma for 20+ years. Included the split between twins.

The intermediate years: Self-hatred, self-pity and failing. Finding out the people you like don’t really like you. The Self fulfilling prophecies. Seeking comfort in isolation. Surviving isolation.

The brain traumas that turned the tables: Seeking help. The psychiatrist who said there was nothing wrong. Getting help with brain trauma and how that reached out to the psychic core.

The revelations: This little core part that survived was the balancing boulder that eventually sparked the discovery of people reaching out to me. Struggling with education. Finding a partner. Struggling with doubts and fears. Meeting the right people. Making the right choices.

Showdown with the voices: Getting a child, Finishing education, Drivers licence, Finding a Job.

Benevolent voices taking the charge: The continuous need for seeking refuge and solitude. Photography, Nature and Meaningful Activities. Occupational Balance. Sticking to the tennis court. Playing the ball.

Life from here and onwards: Choosing life means sharing the trauma. Finding appropriate. Who can One talk to? Everyday activity choices. Time out. The desire to not recover from hearing voices. Being a Whole Person. Living Occupational Justice.